Italy has given final approval to build the world’s longest single-span suspension bridge across the Strait of Messina, a project that has been discussed for over 2,300 years. The bridge, connecting Sicily to mainland Italy, is being framed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a critical national defense investment rather than merely a public works project.
This move comes as NATO, under pressure from President Donald Trump, demands European members increase military spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, up from the current 2% target. Many European nations face significant fiscal challenges, with high debt loads and political instability making the spending targets difficult to meet. Italy, like several other countries, has openly questioned its ability to reach the new goal.
The bridge’s classification as a military infrastructure project is seen as a creative, if controversial, way to count the investment toward NATO’s defense spending requirements. However, economists warn that such piecemeal measures won’t solve Europe’s broader defense funding gap. The region faces challenges including high defense import reliance, a shortage of skilled workers, and limited budget flexibility due to existing social welfare commitments.
Construction is expected to be completed by 2032, pending resolution of legal challenges. While the bridge may help Italy meet its NATO obligations on paper, experts remain skeptical about Europe’s overall ability to significantly increase defense spending without major fiscal reforms or economic growth.
